Potato and Sausage Chowder

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms your heart, look no further than this delicious Potato and Sausage Chowder. This recipe is a beloved favorite in my home, especially during those chilly evenings when all you want is a comforting bowl of goodness. It’s rich, creamy, and loaded with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

The beauty of this chowder is that it’s not just filling; it’s also incredibly easy to make. The combination of tender potatoes and savory sausage creates a hearty dish that everyone will love. So grab your favorite soup pot and let’s dive into this delightful recipe together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this chowder in under an hour!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the creamy texture and flavorful sausage.
• Make Ahead: This chowder stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
• Comforting Flavor: The blend of spices and ingredients creates a warm hug in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients for this delightful chowder. You’ll find everything you need at your local grocery store, ready to bring warmth to your kitchen!

For the Chowder

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 400g (6) sausages (any flavor)
• 1 onion (chopped)
• 2 stalks celery (sliced)
• 2 carrots (sliced)
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 3 tbsp plain/all-purpose flour
• 1 litre/4 cups chicken or vegetable stock
• 2 bay leaves
• 100g/1/2 cup wild rice
• 3 potatoes (medium, peeled and cut into chunks)
• 375ml/1 1/2 cups single/light cream or half and half
• Salt to taste

Variations

This Potato and Sausage Chowder is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale for added greens.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick!
• Change the grain: Substitute wild rice with barley or quinoa for a different texture.

How to Make Potato and Sausage Chowder

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Heat the olive oil in a soup pot over medium heat. Remove the sausage from its casing and add it to the pot. Break up the sausage with a spatula as it cooks until it’s golden brown on the outside. This step is crucial because browning the sausage adds depth of flavor to your chowder. Once cooked through, transfer it to a plate but don’t worry about cleaning the pot—those brown bits are packed with flavor!

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the chopped onion, sliced celery, and carrots. Cook these vegetables over low heat for about 10 minutes until they soften. This gentle cooking allows their natural sweetness to emerge. Then add minced garlic and thyme; cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir until it forms a paste—this will help thicken your chowder wonderfully!

Step 3: Combine Everything

Slowly pour in some chicken stock while stirring to combine with the roux you just made. Once mixed well, add the rest of the stock along with bay leaves and wild rice. Bring everything to a gentle simmer over low to medium heat; let it cook for about 30 minutes so that flavors meld beautifully.

Step 4: Add Potatoes & Cream

Now it’s time to add those lovely cubed potatoes! Let them cook alongside our mixture for another 15 minutes until both the potatoes and wild rice are tender. Finally, pour in the cream and season with salt to taste. Allow everything to warm through before removing from heat—this gives you that luscious creamy texture we’re all craving!

Serve your Potato and Sausage Chowder hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy each spoonful of comfort!

Pro Tips for Making Potato and Sausage Chowder

Making a comforting potato and sausage chowder is a delightful experience, and these tips will help you perfect it!

• Use quality sausages: Opting for high-quality sausages can significantly enhance the flavor of your chowder. Look for ones with fresh herbs and spices to elevate the overall taste.

• Don’t rush the vegetables: Taking your time to sauté the onion, celery, and carrots until they are soft allows their natural sweetness to develop, adding depth to your chowder.

• Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thicker chowder, simply let it simmer longer to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, you can mash some of the potatoes in the pot for a creamier texture.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices! A pinch of smoked paprika or a bit of cayenne pepper can bring a lovely warmth and complexity to the dish.

• Make it ahead: This chowder tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Prepare it in advance and reheat gently when you’re ready to serve!

How to Serve Potato and Sausage Chowder

Serving your potato and sausage chowder can be as fun as making it! With a few presentation ideas, you’ll have a dish that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a vibrant touch and brightens up the flavors.
• Crumbled crackers or bread crumbs: Adding some crunchy texture on top creates a delightful contrast with the creamy chowder.
• Grated cheese: A light dusting of shredded cheese on top can add an extra layer of richness.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: Freshly baked bread is perfect for dipping into your chowder. Opt for sourdough or baguette for an extra special treat!

• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette balances out the richness of the chowder nicely.

• Steamed broccoli or green beans: These veggies add color to your plate while also providing a healthy crunch that complements the soup’s creaminess.

• Cornbread muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins bring a delightful sweetness that pairs beautifully with savory chowders.

With these serving tips, you’ll create an inviting meal that everyone will love! Enjoy every warm spoonful of your hearty potato and sausage chowder!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Potato and Sausage Chowder is perfect for meal prepping! You can whip up a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week, making dinner a breeze on busy nights. Here’s how to best store and enjoy your chowder later.

Storing Leftovers

• Transfer any leftovers into an airtight container.
• Allow the chowder to cool to room temperature before sealing.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the chowder cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Label containers with the date and contents for easy identification.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for the best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chowder overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely; heat in increments of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Potato and Sausage Chowder that might help clarify any uncertainties!

Can I make Potato and Sausage Chowder without cream?

Absolutely! You can substitute cream with coconut milk or use a blend of vegetable broth and almond milk for a lighter version while still keeping it creamy.

How can I make Potato and Sausage Chowder spicier?

To add some heat to your chowder, consider using spicy sausage or adding crushed red pepper flakes while cooking. This will elevate the flavor profile beautifully!

What can I serve alongside Potato and Sausage Chowder?

This chowder pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, fresh salad, or even a side of roasted vegetables. These options will complement its rich flavors perfectly!

How long does Potato and Sausage Chowder last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, your chowder will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Just be sure to reheat it thoroughly before enjoying!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this comforting Potato and Sausage Chowder! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a chilly day. With its creamy texture and hearty ingredients, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Enjoy every spoonful, and don’t hesitate to share your own variations! Happy cooking!